New potential measles exposure in southern Alberta including Calgary: AHS
Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued a public alert regarding additional confirmed cases of measles in Alberta’s south health zone, with potential exposure in Calgary, Rocky View County, Coaldale, Lethbridge, and Taber.
Individuals who were present at specific locations during certain dates and times may have been exposed to measles. These locations include The Days Inn by Wyndham (Calgary Airport), CrossIron Mills mall, Ikea Calgary, Taber Health Centre, Coaldale Health Centre, Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, among others. AHS advised that individuals born in or after 1970 with less than two doses of the measles vaccine are at risk of developing the highly contagious disease.
Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a blotchy, red rash that appears three to seven days after the fever starts. As of noon on Tuesday, the province has recorded 118 measles cases, with 29 new cases reported since the last update on April 17. In the south health zone, there have been ten new cases, bringing the total to 31 confirmed cases.
Dr. Dawn Bowdish, an immunologist and professor at McMaster University, emphasized the importance of vaccination to prevent measles outbreaks. She highlighted the variability in vaccination rates across different regions, making some communities more susceptible to outbreaks. Babies, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe complications from measles.
AHS encourages eligible individuals to book free measles immunizations through Health Link at 811 or their local community health center. The AHS website provides information on potential exposure locations, advisories, and immunization resources for the public to stay informed and protected.
The increase in measles cases underscores the importance of vaccination and public health efforts to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. It is crucial for individuals to monitor themselves for symptoms, review their immunization records, and take necessary precautions to safeguard their health and the community.
